Source: Northern_Echo
Fulop’s switch to Ipswich is on hold
SUNDERLAND'S refusal to let Marton Fulop join Ipswich Town on loan could scupper the Hungarian's chances of linking up with former Black Cats manager Roy Keane.[LNB] A £1.5m fee has been agreed between the two clubs but the Tractor Boys' reluctance to meet the goalkeeper's personal terms has placed the move in jeopardy.[LNB] Sunderland are weighing up an offer for free agent David James to compensate for the loss of Craig Gordon who is expected to be out of action for the first couple of months of the season after suffering a broken arm.[LNB] Irrespective of the outcome of their interest in the England number one, Sunderland have made it clear to Fulop that he can leave the Stadium of Light this summer if a suitable bid is received.[LNB] Fulop is determined to establish himself as a recognised number one and Ipswich are his preferred destination, but Sunderland are playing hardball with Keane who had hoped to agree an initial loan arrangement leading to a permanent deal.[LNB] With Spanish side Hercules poised to offer Fulop a chance to ply his trade in La Liga, Ipswich will have to stretch their finances if they want to land a keeper who proved a more than capable deputy for Gordon last season.[LNB] In the meantime, Sunderland face competition from Blackburn and Premier League newcomers Blackpool in their bid to take Manchester United teenager Danny Welbeck on a season's loan.[LNB] Welbeck ended last season at Preston North End and Sunderland's interest in his services has alerted the North-West rivals who are keen to bolster their striking options.[LNB] Sunderland are leading the chase for the 19-year old as Bruce attempts to add depth to his attack but he knows that Sir Alex Ferguson will only allow the youngster to move to a club that can guarantee the striker regular Premier League football.[LNB] Injury scares to Bruce's first-choice strike pairing will have reminded the manager of the need to strengthen his squad.[LNB] Kenwyne Jones limped out of Tuesday's pre-season friendly defeat to Benfica but Bruce hopes the Trinidad and Tobago international can shake off a minor knee problem although the striker remains a doubt for Saturday's trip to Leicester City.[LNB] Darren Bent's omission from the Tuesday's squad was put down to a hamstring strain but Bruce played down fears it was a serious problem.[LNB] Darren's fine, but he's got a couple of minor niggles and it wasn't worth risking him.[LNB] (Kenwyne) twisted his knee a little, but he'll be fine.[LNB] Both Sunderland and Blackburn have also been linked with interest in Aston Villa's Emile Heskey, however, Bruce had earlier indicated that he would be unlikely to make any move for a player he managed at Birmingham City and Wigan.[LNB]
